“It’s not exactly a scam, Crease. Even at half speed, you’re pretty damn good.” –Rayburn, “Man On Fire”

Such is the impasse Drake finds himself with the long rumored release of a mixtape, If You’re Reading This, It’s Too Late, revealed on iTunes on So Far Gone’s sixth anniversary.  This album is a mere bridge, between Nothing Was The Same, and where he intends to go with Views From The 6iX.  Each selection is forged with the next by a skit in some form, seamlessly stringing the narrative together, as was on his previous effort.  Unlike Nothing, there are fewer peaks and valleys musically, replaced by catchy, captivating records with a pinch of the retrospect/introspection Drake is known for.  Reading is more album, than mixtape as rumored: entertaining at times, yet hindered by a retread in content as Drake goes through the motions in search of new methods to challenge himself.

Drake is bored with the lack of a consistent foil in today’s musical landscape and it is evident from the album’s onset.  Vocally and lyrically, “Legend” lacks the conviction of say, a “Tuscan Leather”, while his delivery is lackadaisical.  This only continues on “Energy”, but he is more engaged, ditching the casual flow as he spouts off about leeches he has encountered on his journey.  “Know Yourself” and the updated “Used To” deliver a volley of bruising flows.  The former reeks of his trademark authenticity while has his mentor Lil’ Wayne contributes an array of clever lines on the latter.  The album’s vibe, chiefly helmed by Boi-1da and Noah “40” Shebib, is akin to So Far Gone’s: brooding yet intimate.

DRAKE ~ JUNGLE from OctobersVeryOwn on Vimeo.

Several records, including “Jungle” and “No Tellin’” seethe beneath the surface, never quite reaching a climax.  While production is the star throughout, it is, fortunately, not the end all as the album picks up for the home stretch.  A la Jay-Z, Drake’s confident and prophetic, playfully flowing over the springily broody “6iX Man”.  He’s especially visceral on “6:00pm in New York”, arrogantly issuing subliminal lines at a number of targets while reinforcing his status as hip hop’s alpha male. The autobiographical “You & The 6iX” is a serene, change of pace, comprised of exchanges with his mother, regarding his choices and judgment.  Drake’s love affair with Toronto can run tired with shout outs every other song, but it ensures that “The Boy” will never forget the place that first believed him and that resting on his laurels is not an option.

Highlights—Jungle/Know Yourself/You & The 6iX/6iX Man/6:00pm In New York

Skip It—Legend/Preach